A public backlash against the store erupted over allegations two black shoppers were hauled before police when staff questioned how they could afford to buy expensive designer items. Both parties have now filed discrimination lawsuits against the retailer.

The allegations have forced the spotlight on Jay Z, who has teamed up with designers at Barneys for a curated fashion line set to go on sale on 20 November (13), with fans calling on him to end his association with the brand.

An online petition on Change.org has pulled in more than 1,400 signatures demanding he pulls his name from the collection.

The post reads, "Jay Z should be appalled by Barneys actions, and withdraw all support from them. If he does this, he will send a clear message to all corporations that are like minded, that this behavior cannot be tolerated any longer."